Northern Powerhouse: Early Years Attainment

Lord Watson of Invergowrie Excerpts

Tuesday 22nd December 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

I can certainly offer my noble friend that reassurance. Rural communities remain at the forefront of the Government’s mind.

[Lord Watson of Invergowrie (Lab)]

My Lords, the Government have already rowed back on their manifesto commitment to double free childcare for all three and four year-olds. Does the Minister not accept that that age group is very important in terms of early years attainment and that it should be targeted with all the resources available?

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

We are indeed doubling the amount of free childcare for children in that age group. We are also providing free childcare for 40% of disadvantaged two and three year-olds. In addition, through the early years pupil premium, we are targeting resources to provide additional support for disadvantaged three and four year-olds. It is certainly a group that we are very keen to ensure resources are properly directed to.